All virtual services are available and some libraries are open for in-person use, while others remain closed through January 23, 2022. Learn more.
Browse:
Harvard Library’s subscription to Ancestry.com ended recently. There are other options available for genealogical research, including:
There are also links to further resources for genealogical and historical research in these research guides:
In addition, note that Ancestry is available from many public libraries, including the Cambridge Public Library, which offers access to the database for users within the library. See this page for more information on the CPL genealogical offerings.
Search tips for National Archives:
From Advanced Search, limit to digitized records. Use Fold3’s search interface to help you identify the relevant record group/location within the National Archives.
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Sunday 12-7pm
Chat is intended for brief inquiries from the Harvard community.
Reach out to librarians and other reference specialists by email using our online form. We usually respond within 24 hours Monday through Friday.
Talk to a librarian for advice on defining your topic, developing your research strategy, and locating and using sources. Make an appointment now.
These services are intended primarily for Harvard University faculty, staff and students. If you are not affiliated with Harvard, please use these services only to request information about the Library and its collections.
Our chat reference and Research Appointment Request services are intended for Harvard affiliates. All others are welcome to submit questions using the form on this page.
We are happy to answer questions from all Harvard affiliates and from non-affiliates inquiring about the library's collections.
Unfortunately, we're unable to answer questions from the general public which are not directly related to Harvard Library services and collections.